Florida Department of Education
Curriculum Framework

Program Title:	Non-Destructive Testing Technology
Career Cluster:	Transportation, Distribution & Logistics

CCC	
CIP Number	0647060704	
Program Type	College Credit Certificate (CCC)	
Program Length	25 credit hours	
CTSO	SkillsUSA	
SOC Codes (all applicable) 	Please see the CIP to SOC Crosswalk located at the link below.	
CTE Program Resources 	http://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/career-tech-edu/program-resources.stml	

Purpose

This certificate program is part of the Aviation Maintenance Administration AS degree program (1647060700).

A College Credit Certificate consists of a program of instruction of less than sixty (60) credits of college-level courses, which is part of an AS or AAS degree program and prepares students for entry into employment (Rule 6A-14.030, F.A.C.).

This program offers a sequence of courses that provides coherent and rigorous content aligned with challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare for further education and careers in the Transportation, Distribution & Logistics career cluster; provides technical skill proficiency, and includes competency-based applied learning that contributes to the academic knowledge, higher-order reasoning and problem-solving skills, work attitudes, general employability skills, technical skills, and occupation-specific skills, and knowledge of all aspects of the Transportation, Distribution & Logistics career cluster. 

The content includes but is not limited to aircraft maintenance practices, covering routine procedures to advanced diagnostic techniques, aviation safety protocols, handling aerospace materials and understanding aerospace structures, aircraft systems and components, regulatory requirements in aviation maintenance and quality control and assurance methods in aviation.  

Additional Information relevant to this Career and Technical Education (CTE) program is provided at the end of this document.

Program Structure

This program is a planned sequence of instruction consisting 25 credit hours.
This program is a vital technique for inspecting materials without altering their future usability. It plays an essential role in detecting imperfections while preserving the material’s integrity. In various sectors, ranging from aerospace and manufacturing to theme parks and energy, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) is crucial for assessing component performance, ensuring structural integrity, and identifying faulty parts. Consequently, NDT professionals are in demand across numerous industries, offering a broad spectrum of career opportunities.

Regulated Programs

This program collaborates with the American Society of Non-Destructive Testing (ASNT), (https://certification.asnt.org/) a leading authority in setting industry standards for training, education, and inspection methods within NDT. Through this collaboration, students gain access to ASNT certifications, which are globally recognized.

Standards

After successfully completing this program, the student will be able to perform the following:

01.0	Demonstrate workable knowledge in the physics behind the operation of NDT instrumentation.
02.0	Exhibit proficiency in the execution of NDT methods and Interpretation of Inspection SOPs in accordance with ATA-105 and NAS-410 standards.
03.0	Follow safety protocols and compliance standards in NDT practices.
04.0	Prepare for NDT qualifying exams and subsequent OJT hours.
05.0	Demonstrate professional skills in collaboration, reporting, and workplace social dynamics.

Florida Department of Education
Student Performance Standards

Program Title:	Non-Destructive Testing Technology
CIP Number:		TBD
Program Length:	25 credit hours	

This certificate program is part of the Aviation Maintenance Administration AS degree program (1647060700).  At the completion of this program, the student will be able to:	
01.0	Demonstrate workable knowledge in the physics behind the operation of NDT instrumentation.  The student will be able to:	
01.01	Define the principles of sound wave propagation as it relates to Ultrasonic Testing (UT), including concepts like frequency, velocity, and wave modes (e.g., longitudinal, shear) used to detect material flaws.	
01.02	Explain the principles of electromagnetic induction in Eddy Current Testing (ECT), including how induced currents interact with materials and how changes in the material (e.g., cracks, corrosion) affect the resulting impedance.	
01.03	Describe the principles of magnetism that govern Magnetic Particle Inspection (MT), including how magnetic fields are generated and how they interact with ferromagnetic materials to reveal surface and near-surface defects	
01.04	Demonstrate the application of the physics of light and optics in Visual Inspection (VI), including how lighting, magnification, and human visual perception interact with surface characteristics to identify potential defects	
01.05	Explain the principles of infrared radiation and thermography, focusing on how heat patterns, emissivity, and thermal conductivity of materials are used to identify hidden defects or stress areas in structures.	
01.06	Apply wave propagation principles to understand how different NDT methods use waves (sound, light, or electromagnetic) to detect flaws, and how those waves interact with various material types and configurations.	
01.07	Describe the role of material properties (such as density, conductivity, permeability, and elasticity) in determining the effectiveness of each NDT method and how these properties affect wave behavior or signal interpretation.	
01.08	Select the operational limits and optimal settings for each NDT method, considering the physics involved (e.g., ultrasound frequency range, eddy current coil size, magnetic field strength) and how these affect test results.	
01.09	Evaluate the impact of environmental conditions (such as temperature, pressure, and surface finish) on the performance of each NDT technique and instrumentation, making necessary adjustments to the method as required during live assessments or simulated real-world scenarios.	
01.10	Calibrate and troubleshoot NDT equipment, applying the fundamental physics behind the instrumentation, and demonstrate the ability to correct errors, ensuring test results fall within specified tolerances for each NDT method.	
02.0	Exhibit proficiency in the execution of NDT methods and Interpretation of Inspection SOPs in accordance with ATA-105 and NAS-410 standards.  The student will be able to:.	
02.01	Identify defects, corrosion, cracks, or other irregularities in aircraft components during Visual Inspections (VI), following ATA-105 inspection protocols to ensure compliance with commercial aviation safety standards.	
02.02	Apply Ultrasonic Testing (UT) and Eddy Current Testing (ECT) on critical aircraft parts, such as wings, fuselage, or landing gear, to detect subsurface flaws, corrosion, or material discontinuities, using the appropriate NAS-410 and ATA-105 protocols to ensure accurate results.	
02.03	Apply Magnetic Particle Inspection (MT) to detect surface and near-surface defects in ferromagnetic materials, including aircraft structural components, following ATA-105 protocols and NAS-410 standards to ensure proper execution of the method	
02.04	Apply Thermography to identify heat patterns and thermal anomalies in aircraft structures, detecting hidden defects such as corrosion or stress fractures in critical areas (e.g., fuselage, wings), following ATA-105 inspection procedures and NAS-410 standards for infrared NDT application.	
03.0	Follow safety protocols and compliance standards in NDT practices.  The student will be able to:	
03.01	Identify safety protocols related to the use of NDT equipment and materials, ensuring adherence to NAS-410 and ATA-105 guidelines during inspections.	
03.02	Describe the potential hazards associated with various NDT methods, such as ultrasonic testing, eddy current testing, magnetic particle inspection, and thermography, and relate safety precautions to mitigate risks.	
03.03	Demonstrate the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in accordance with NAS-410 and ATA-105 standards, ensuring the safety of inspectors and personnel during NDT operations.	
03.04	Explain the importance of complying with regulatory standards and industry protocols, emphasizing the role of ATA-105 and NAS-410 in maintaining the integrity and safety of commercial and military aircraft.	
03.05	Outline procedures for reviewing and modifying inspection protocols to ensure compliance with the latest safety and regulatory requirements, adapting NDT practices to meet evolving standards.	
03.06	Describe the importance of adhering to relevant OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards, EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) regulations, and other safety guidelines while performing NDT operations.	
04.0	Prepare for NDT qualifying exams and subsequent OJT hours.  The student will be able to:	
04.01	Identify the training and experience hour requirements for NDT certification as outlined by the ASNT SNT-TC-1A standard, including the minimum hours required for Level I, Level II, and Level III certification in various NDT methods.	
04.02	Explain the key components of NDT certification exams, including written, practical, and oral examinations, and how they align with the NAS-410 and ATA-105 standards for aviation inspection.	
04.03	Demonstrate the ability to apply NDT methods through practical exercises and laboratory work, ensuring students meet or exceed a 75% proficiency rate on both written and practical exams based on classroom and lab instruction.	
04.04	Describe the role and importance of on-the-job training (OJT) in gaining real-world experience and meeting the required hours for ASNT certification, especially for each level of qualification.	
04.05	Outline a structured plan to meet the required OJT hours for each NDT method, ensuring that students understand the specific experience requirements for certification and the significance of supervised, hands-on training.	
05.0	Demonstrate professional skills in collaboration, reporting, and workplace social dynamics.  The student will be able to:	
05.01	Describe the importance of effective communication in NDT, including how to report findings clearly and accurately to various stakeholders (e.g., supervisors, engineers, and clients).	
05.02	Identify the key components of teamwork in NDT, including how to collaborate effectively with engineers, inspectors, and maintenance personnel to solve problems identified through NDT inspections.	
05.03	Explain the professional and ethical standards that NDT technicians must adhere to, including confidentiality, integrity in reporting, and maintaining the trust of stakeholders.	
05.04	Explain how NDT professionals should apply ethical principles when interacting with colleagues, clients, and supervisors, ensuring responsible decision-making and adherence to industry regulations.	
05.05	Write professional reports that summarize inspection results, defect assessments, and recommendations for corrective actions, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and ethical responsibility.	

Additional Information

Laboratory Activities

Laboratory investigations that include scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, emerging technologies, tools and equipment, as well as, experimental, quality, and safety procedures are an integral part of this career and technical program/course. Laboratory investigations benefit all students by developing an understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills required to manage, operate, calibrate and troubleshoot equipment/tools used to make observations. Students understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret and present the resulting data. Equipment and supplies should be provided to enhance hands-on experiences for students.

Special Notes

Recommended General Education Courses:
The program begins with foundational coursework aimed at delivering a functional understanding of materials science and the principles of material interactions. It also emphasizes the development of mathematical skills essential for calculation, problem-solving, and modeling in NDT, effectively preparing students for their careers and subsequent core NDT coursework. The general education component includes:

•	College Algebra (MAC 1105 3 credit hours): In this course, students will develop problem solving skills, critical thinking, computational proficiency, and contextual fluency through the study of equations, functions, and their graphs. Emphasis will be placed on quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Topics will include solving equations and inequalities, definition and properties of a function, domain and range, transformations of graphs, operations on functions, composite and inverse functions, basic polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and applications.

•	Physics for Liberal Arts with Laboratory (PHY 1020C 3 credit hours): This course offers a comprehensive survey of physics, covering a wide range of topics including motion, Newton's laws, energy, sound, heat, electricity, magnetism, and optics. Emphasizing a conceptual understanding of physics, the course integrates critical thinking skills and real-world applications.

These general education courses are vital for ensuring adequate preparation to engage with the professional core courses, where the practical applications of materials science and applied physics converge with NDT inspection methodologies. The subsequent phase of the program aspires to deepen the mathematical and scientific knowledge acquired, imbuing individuals with the expertise necessary to confront complex challenges within the field.

Program Overview: Foundations and Professional Preparation for NDT Careers:  This comprehensive structure ensures that students develop a solid theoretical foundation and practical understanding of the scientific principles underlying various NDT inspection methods. It enhances critical thinking and numerical literacy, equipping students with the knowledge needed to excel in professional NDT coursework. The program offers specialized training in various NDT techniques, aligning with ASNT’s SNT-TC-1A and CP-105 standards, while incorporating ATA-105 and NAS-410 standards for aerospace NDT to ensure coherence with the parent Aviation Maintenance Management program. Additionally, the skills gained through these core NDT courses are widely applicable across different industries, reflecting the broad relevance of the knowledge provided by CP-105.
ETI-1121: Introduction to Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) (3 credit hours): An introductory course covering the fundamentals of NDT, including an overview of various testing methods and their applications.
ETI-2123C: Liquid Penetrant (DT) NDT (3 credit hours): This course delves into the principles and techniques of liquid penetrant testing for detecting surface discontinuities.
ETI-2124C: Magnetic Particle (MT) NDT (3 credit hours): Instruction on magnetic particle testing for detecting surface and near-surface flaws in ferromagnetic materials.
ETI-2125C: Eddy Current (ET) NDT (4 credit hours): Covers ultrasonic testing, utilizing high-frequency sound waves to detect internal flaws in materials.
ETI-2126C: Ultrasound (UT) NDT (4 credit hours): Covers ultrasonic testing, utilizing high-frequency sound waves to detect internal flaws in materials.
ETI-2127C: Infrared Thermography (IR) NDT (2 credit hours): Explores infrared thermography for detecting thermal anomalies in materials.
With the combination of core courses and mathematics requirements, the estimated total credit hours for the program are 24 credit hours, ensuring that students acquire a thorough understanding of NDT principles and are well-prepared for ASNT certification and successful careers in the industry.

Regulating: To regulate a Level I/Level II Nondestructive Testing (NDT) training program at a college, particularly within the context of aviation maintenance, adherence to both American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) standards and aviation-specific guidelines such as ATA-105 is essential.

Firstly, the curriculum should be developed in alignment with ASNT Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A, which outlines the training and qualification requirements for NDT personnel, and ASNT CP-105, which specifies the required training hours for each NDT method and level. Given the aviation focus, the curriculum must also adhere to ATA-105 and/or NAS-410 standards, which provide specific requirements for NDT training in the aviation industry. This ensures that the program meets both general NDT standards and the specialized needs of aviation maintenance.

Instructors should be certified to at least Level II in the NDT methods they teach, with ASNT NDT Level III certification highly preferred. They should also engage in continuous professional development to remain current with advancements in NDT technologies and practices. The college must provide well-equipped laboratories with the necessary NDT tools for hands-on training, adhering to safety standards and regulations.

Program management should be overseen by a dedicated coordinator to ensure compliance with ASNT guidelines, ATA-105/ NAS-410 standards, and academic credit requirements. This includes maintaining comprehensive records of training hours, examination results, and certifications issued. Students must complete the required academic credit hours and pass both written and practical examinations based on ASNT guidelines to achieve certification. Regular audits of the program are necessary to ensure ongoing compliance, and a feedback mechanism should be in place to support continuous improvement.

An advisory board comprising industry experts, NDT professionals, and ASNT representatives will guide the development and refinement of the program. Partnerships with local industries can provide students with valuable internship opportunities, enhancing their practical experience. Continuing education courses should be available to help NDT technicians maintain and upgrade their skills, with pathways for students to advance to Level III certification or specialize in advanced NDT methods.

By integrating ATA-105 and/or NAS 410 standards with ASNT guidelines and converting training hours into college credit, the institution can develop a comprehensive and respected aerospace NDT training program. This approach ensures that students are well-prepared for careers as Level I and Level II NDT technicians, equipped with the specific skills required for aviation maintenance while meeting both academic and industry standards.

Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO)

Florida SkillsUSA (SkillsUSA) is the co-curricular career and technical student organization(s) providing leadership training and reinforcing specific career and technical skills. Career and Technical Student Organizations provide activities for students as an integral part of the instruction offered. 

Accommodations

Federal and state legislation requires the provision of accommodations for students with disabilities to meet individual needs and ensure equal access. Postsecondary students with disabilities must self-identify, present documentation, request accommodations if needed, and develop a plan with their counselor and/or instructors. Accommodations received in postsecondary education may differ from those received in secondary education. Accommodations change the way the student is instructed. Students with disabilities may need accommodations in such areas as instructional methods and materials, assignments and assessments, time demands and schedules, learning environment, assistive technology and special communication systems. Documentation of the accommodations requested and provided should be maintained in a confidential file.